Manifold with integrated valve

ABSTRACT

A manifold for use with a fluid delivery system includes a fluid inlet defining a portion of a common channel, a fluid nozzle outlet, a plunger housing of an integrated valve, a collar of a coupling mechanism, and a mounting structure. The fluid inlet, fluid nozzle outlet, plunger housing, collar and mounting structure of the manifold are integrally-constructed. A manifold assembly for use with a fluid delivery system includes at least a first and a second manifold. Each manifold includes a fluid inlet defining a portion of a common channel, a fluid nozzle outlet, a plunger housing of an integrated valve, and a collar of a coupling mechanism. The fluid inlet, fluid nozzle outlet, plunger housing, and collar are integrally-constructed, and the fluid inlet of the first manifold is received by a portion of a common channel of the second manifold.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application Ser.No. 62/278,385, filed on Jan. 13, 2016, and entitled “MANIFOLDS WITHINTEGRATED VALVES, MODULAR MANIFOLDS, MANIFOLDS WITH ADAPTABLE EDUCTORS,AND SYSTEMS THEREOF,” the entire contents of which is hereinincorporated by reference in its entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to manifolds with integrated valves,modular manifolds, manifolds with adaptable eductors, integratedmanifold assemblies, and systems thereof.

BACKGROUND

To distribute various fluids for different purposes, a manifold istypically attached to one or more individual valves in piecewisefashion. The valves are commonly electric solenoid valves or otherpilot-type valves attached to the manifold via screws or othermechanical fasteners. The manifold often includes one inlet and severaloutlets, each outlet controlled by one of the valves. Banks of valvescan sometimes be modular in construction such that the manifold isexpandable from one valve to many without having to machine a new valvebank. However, the increased assembly time and parts count required toconstruct modular manifolds mechanically fastened to individual valvesresults in higher production costs. This type of construction, withmultiple parts coupled with the manifold, also increases the likelihoodof leaks and degradation.

SUMMARY

In some embodiments, a manifold for use with a fluid delivery system mayinclude a fluid inlet defining a portion of a common channel; a fluidnozzle outlet; a plunger housing of an integrated valve; a collar of acoupling mechanism; and a mounting structure. The fluid inlet, fluidnozzle outlet, plunger housing, collar and mounting structure may beintegrally constructed.

In certain implementations and alternatives, the manifold may beconfigured to be coupled to at least one of a connector inlet, an endcap, or another manifold by a manifold coupling. In suchimplementations, the manifold coupling may be by a spring clip.

In certain implementations and alternatives, the integrated valve mayfurther include a plunger arm and a plunger seat. In such examples, theintegrated valve may be configured to receive pressurized air to causethe plunger arm to open a fluid inlet defined by the plunger seat, andthe fluid inlet of the plunger seat may fluidly couple the commonchannel to the fluid nozzle outlet. The integrated valve may furtherinclude a plunger spring and a plunger cap. The plunger spring may bearranged between the plunger cap and the plunger arm and urge theplunger arm to a position where the fluid inlet of the plunger seat isclosed.

In certain implementations and alternatives, the coupling mechanism mayfurther include a sleeve and one or more jaws. According to suchimplementations, the coupling mechanism may be configured to couple toan applicator assembly, an eductor assembly or an adapter.

In some embodiments, a manifold assembly for use with a fluid deliverysystem may include at least a first and a second manifold. Each manifoldmay include a fluid inlet defining a portion of a common channel; afluid nozzle outlet; a plunger housing of an integrated valve; and acollar of a coupling mechanism. The fluid inlet, fluid nozzle outlet,plunger housing, and collar may be integrally-constructed, and the fluidinlet of the first manifold may be received by a portion of a commonchannel of the second manifold. In certain implementations andalternatives, the first and the second manifolds may be coupled by amanifold coupling including a spring clip.

In some embodiments, a manifold assembly for use with a fluid deliverysystem may include a common fluid channel including a common fluid inletat a first end and a common fluid outlet at a second end; a plurality ofindividual fluid outlets, each of the individual outlets fluidly coupledto the common fluid channel and arranged between the common fluid inletand the common fluid outlet; a common air channel including an air inletat a first end and an air outlet at a second end; a corresponding numberof plunger housings to the plurality individual fluid outlets, each ofthe plunger housings fluidly coupled to the common air channel; acoupling mechanism configured for coupling the manifold assembly to anadjacent manifold assembly; and a mounting structure configured forsecuring the manifold assembly. The common fluid channel, individualfluid outlets, common air channel, plunger housings, coupling mechanismand mounting structure may be integrally-constructed.

In certain implementations and alternatives, the plunger housing mayinclude a plunger arm receiving portion. In such examples, a firstportion of the plunger arm receiving portion may be configured tofluidly couple with the common air channel, and a second portion of theplunger arm receiving portion may be configured to fluidly couple withthe common fluid channel. The plunger arm receiving portion may beconfigured to sealingly engage with a plunger including a plunger armsuch that air from the common air channel and fluid from the commonfluid channel are separated. In such implementations, the distal end ofthe second portion of the plunger arm receiving portion may be coupledto the common fluid channel.

In certain implementations and alternatives, the plunger arm receivingportion may further include an end cap receiving portion configured toreceive an end cap for enclosing a plunger. In some examples, anexternal face of the plunger housing may be configured to receive asolenoid valve.

In certain implementations and alternatives, the manifold assemblyfurther includes one or more latch member coupling mechanisms, the latchmember coupling mechanisms each configured to reversibly couple aneductor to the manifold assembly. In such embodiments, the latch membercoupling mechanisms may each include a latch member coupled with aspring, the spring compressible by a user.

In some examples, each of the plurality of fluid outlets may bereversibly sealed by a plunger, the plunger configured to movebi-directionally in response to changes in air pressure within theplunger housings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of a single inlet, single outletmanifold coupled to an eductor, according to certain implementations.

FIG. 2 is a schematic illustration of a cross-section of the manifoldand eductor of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a schematic illustration of a manifold assembly defining asingle inlet and two outlets, according to certain implementations.

FIG. 4 is a schematic illustration of the manifold assembly of FIG. 3with a large eductor and a small eductor joined thereto, according tocertain implementations.

FIG. 5 is a schematic illustration of a cross-section of the manifoldassembly and eductors of FIG. 4.

FIG. 6 is a schematic illustration of a cross-section of the manifoldassembly and eductors of FIG. 4 through a common fluid channel of themanifold assembly.

FIG. 7 is a schematic illustration of a cross-section of the manifold ofFIG. 1 showing the interior details of a coupling between two modularmanifold sections.

FIG. 8 is a schematic illustration of a cross-section of the manifold ofFIG. 1 with a small eductor joined thereto and showing the interiordetails of the manifold.

FIG. 9 is a schematic illustration of a perspective view of anintegrated manifold assembly defining a single inlet and three outlets,with a chemical eductor attached to each outlet, according to certainimplementations.

FIG. 10 is a schematic illustration of another perspective view of theintegrated manifold assembly of FIG. 9.

FIG. 11 is a schematic illustration of an exploded component view of theintegrated manifold assembly in the orientation shown in FIG. 9.

FIG. 12 is a schematic illustration of an exploded component view of theintegrated manifold assembly in the orientation shown in FIG. 10.

FIG. 13 is a schematic illustration of a side cross-section of theintegrated manifold assembly of FIG. 9.

FIG. 14 is a schematic illustration of a front cross-section of theintegrated manifold assembly of FIG. 9, taken along a plane through thecommon fluid channel defined by the integrated manifold assembly.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Provided herein are manifolds for use in fluid delivery systems, andmore specifically, manifolds with integrated valves, manifolds with amodular construction, integrated manifold assemblies, and/or manifoldsadapted to receive a variety of nozzles and/or eductors. Manifoldassemblies described herein may include multiple integrated valvescontrolled at least in part by the input of pressurized air. An eductormay be attached to each manifold output, allowing concentratedchemicals, gases, or other materials to be mixed with a motive fluidderived from a common fluid channel defined by the manifold assembly.Accurately-diluted fluid mixtures may be emitted through each eductoroutlet. By integrating one or more valves within modular manifolds,which may also be integrally formed and fluidly connected, the manifoldassemblies disclosed herein may be more resistant to leaks and corrosionthan pre-existing fluid delivery systems. In addition to enhanceddurability, the manifold assemblies may be cheaper to manufacture.Features from any of the disclosed embodiments may be used incombination with one another, without limitation. In addition, otherfeatures and advantages of the present disclosure will become apparentto those of ordinary skill in the art through consideration of thefollowing detailed description and the accompanying drawings.

Referring to the drawings, FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate a manifold 102coupled to an eductor 103 via a coupling mechanism 104. The manifold isa single inlet, single outlet manifold with an integrated valve 105. Asshown, the coupling mechanism 104 may also be formed integrally with themanifold 102. The eductor 103, which may also be an applicator, injectoror eductor assembly, defines an eductor inlet 106 for receiving andchanneling various concentrated substances into the body of the eductor103, and an eductor outlet 107 for delivering diluted fluids to a targetsite. Opposite the eductor 103, the integrated valve 105 of the manifold102 includes a spring cap 108. The manifold 102 also defines an airinlet 109 and includes two mounting feet 110. The mounting feet 110 maybe part of an integrally formed mounting structure configured toreleasably or reversibly secure the manifold 102 to various externalsurfaces and/or objects.

In operation, pressurized air received at the air inlet 109 may open andclose the integrated valve 105, thereby controlling the delivery of amotive fluid into the eductor 103 for mixing with a concentratedsubstance received through the eductor inlet 106. As such, theintegrated valve 105 may be referred to as an “air valve.” The motivefluid, e.g., water, is received through a motive fluid inlet 111 thatmay be fluidly connected with a source supply via tubing, piping, or thelike. As shown, one or more inlet connectors 112 may be coupled with themanifold 102. In some examples, the inlet connectors 112 may be definedby the manifold 102. The inlet connectors 112 may couple the manifold102 to additional manifolds or other components. Because the manifold102 is modular, it may also be referred to as a “manifold section” insome embodiments that include multiple manifolds coupled together in anassembly arrangement.

Opposite the motive fluid inlet 111, the manifold 102 shown in FIG. 1includes an end cap 113. The end cap 113 may confine the motive fluidwithin the manifold 102 to an internal passageway starting at the inlet111 and ending at the eductor outlet 107. Because the manifold 102 mayreceive motive fluid at the motive fluid inlet 111, the section of themanifold 102 defining the inlet 111 may be referred to as the inletbranch 114. The opposite end, coupled with an end cap 113, may bereferred to as the connector branch 115, configured to couple with anend cap 113 or an additional manifold 102, via another inlet connectorin some examples. An inlet locking member 116 is shown inserted into theinlet branch 114. In embodiments, the inlet locking member 116 may be aspring clip configured to couple the inlet connector 112 with the inletbranch 114. An end cap locking member 117 is shown similarly insertedinto the connector branch 115, opposite the inlet branch 114, where itcouples the connector branch 115 to the end cap 113. Like the inletlocking member 116, the end cap locking member 117 may be a spring clipin embodiments. In operation, the manifold 102 may receive a motivefluid at the motive fluid inlet 111, controllably direct the motivefluid into the eductor 103 via operation of the integrated valve 105,mix the motive fluid with a concentrated substance received via theinlet 106 of the eductor 103, and emit the resulting fluidic mixturefrom the eductor 103 via the eductor outlet 107.

At the inlet branch 114, the inlet 111 may receive a variety of motivefluids, e.g., pressurized fluids, and direct them into an internalchannel defined by the manifold 102. The motive fluid may also bereferred to as a “bulk” fluid, which may be a liquid, typically water.The pressure of the motive fluid upon receipt at the inlet 111 andwithin the manifold 102 may vary. In embodiments, the pressure of themotive fluid may be range from about 250 to about 750 psi, about 300 toabout 700 psi, about 350 to about 650 psi, about 400 to about 600 psi,about 450 to about 550 psi, about 475 to about 525 psi, or about 500psi. The motive fluid may be used to mix with and dilute varioussubstances, e.g., chemicals and/or gases, which may be received at theeductor 103 in a concentrated state. Diluting such substances may benecessary to reduce waste, save costs, and/or prevent undesirableeffects caused by spraying overly concentrated chemicals onto targetsites and materials. Selectively mixing the motive fluid with differentconcentrated substance(s) received at the eductor 103 before emissionfrom the eductor outlet 107 may dilute the concentrated substances to asufficient level. In some examples, the same motive fluid may be usedregardless of the concentrated substances received at the eductor 103.In other examples, the motive fluid may vary depending on the substancesreceived at the eductor 103. The substances received at the eductor 103may include one or more chemicals, gases, soaps, detergents, rinsingagents, foaming agents, and/or liquid waxes. For consistency, the inputof “chemicals” at the eductor 103 will be referred to herein.

The integrated valve 105 may operate to selectively release motive fluidinto the eductor 103. As shown, the integrated valve 105 may be formedintegrally with the body of the manifold 102, such that the valve 105 isnot a separate component that is detachable from the body of themanifold 102. By forming a valve with a manifold body such that theresulting manifold 102 is a unitary construction with an integratedvalve 105, the number of discrete manifold components may be reducedrelative to other manifold designs. The reduced number of componentsincluded in the manifold 102 may decrease the likelihood of leakformation. Such reduced leakage may be bidirectional in that themanifold 102 may be better sealed to prevent the penetration of externalfluids into the interior of the manifold, as well as the loss of fluidsfrom within the manifold 102 to the external environment. Corrosiveeffects caused by water and various chemicals may be substantiallyavoided as a result. In addition, minimized leakage may maintain thedesired water and air pressure levels within the manifold 102.

The integrated valve 105 may be controlled at least in part by the inputof air via the air inlet 109. For instance, the input of air into theinlet 109 may increase an air pressure within the housing of theintegrated valve 105, which may cause the integrated valve 105 to open,thereby allowing a motive fluid to enter the eductor 103. Likewise, whenthe input of air is stopped, the integrated valve 105 may close,preventing the motive fluid from entering the eductor 103, and stoppingthe emission of diluted chemicals from the eductor outlet 107.

The eductor 103 shown in FIG. 1 is axially aligned with the integratedvalve 105. Unlike the integrated valve 105, the eductor 103 may be aseparate, detachable component not integrally formed with the manifold102. An assortment of eductors 103 may be interchangeably coupled withthe manifold 102. In additional examples, the eductor 103 may beintegrally formed with the manifold 102. In operation, one or morechemical inputs may passively enter the eductor inlet 106, where theymay be drawn into the body of the eductor 103 via a suction forcegenerated by a Venturi zone positioned within the eductor 103. Theeductor inlet 106 may be connected to a source supply, e.g., tank, ofconcentrated input via tubing and/or piping. In some examples, a sourcesupply connected to the eductor inlet 106 may constantly supplychemicals to the eductor 103 such that the eductor 103 may readily drawthe chemicals therein upon selective passage of motive fluidtherethrough. In the orientation shown, the integrated valve 105 ispositioned above the eductor 103. The orientation of the manifold 102may vary in some examples, such that the eductor 103 may be positionedabove, adjacent to, or diagonal to the integrated valve 105.

The mounting feet 110 shown in FIG. 1 may secure the manifold 102 to amounting surface, e.g., a wall. As shown, the mounting feet 110 may beintegrally formed with the manifold 102. In embodiments, the mountingfeet 110 may be loosened so that the manifold 102 may be releasably orreversibly mounted on a surface. Alternative or additional connectionmeans may also be used to mount the manifold 102 to an external surface.For example, various fasteners and/or adhesives may be used.

FIG. 2 illustrates a cross-section of the manifold 102 and eductor 103of FIG. 1. As shown, the manifold 102 may include numerous integrallyconstructed components, including the integrated valve 105 and amanifold outlet nozzle 118. FIG. 2 also shows the internal components ofthe integrated valve 105, which may include a piston or plunger 120 anda plunger spring 121, each enclosed within a plunger housing 122. Asshown, the plunger housing 122 and the housing of the integrated valve105 may be molded as one unitary component. The plunger housing 122 maydefine an internal air fill space 123. The plunger 120 may include anelongate plunger arm 124 that defines a plunger tip 125 positionedopposite the plunger spring 121. As shown, the plunger tip 125 may restin a plunger seat 126 in one position. The plunger 120 may also define aplunger head 127, positioned adjacent to the plunger spring 121. Theplunger head 127 may include one or more plunger head O-rings 128.

The motive fluid inlet 111 defines an opening to a common fluid channeldefined within the manifold 102. As such, the motive fluid inlet 111 mayalso be referred to as a “common channel inlet” in some examples. Uponopening the integrated valve 105, at least a portion of the motive fluidmay be released into an outlet passageway 130 defined by the manifold102, which directs the motive fluid into the eductor 103 via themanifold outlet nozzle 118. The end cap 113 may be coupled to theconnector branch 115 of the manifold 102 via one or more bands 131 andthe end cap locking member 117. The coupling mechanism 104 used tocouple the eductor 103 to the manifold 102 includes a sleeve 132surrounding a collar 133. Jaws 134 extending radially inward from thecollar 133 may engage with a circumferential recess 136 defined by theeductor 103. As shown, the motive fluid inlet 111, the manifold outletnozzle 118, the plunger housing 122 of the integrated valve 105, thecollar 133, and a mounting structure, e.g., the mounting feet 110, mayall be integrally constructed in one unitary manifold 102.

In operation, a motive fluid may be received at the manifold 102 throughthe fluid inlet 111 at the inlet branch 114. The inlet branch 114 may becoupled with the inlet connector 112 for coupling the manifold 102 toone or more additional manifolds, for example as shown in FIG. 3. Thus,one or more motive fluids may be received at the inlet 111 directly froma supply source connection, or indirectly through one or more additionalmanifolds, or manifold sections. After input of the motive fluid, thefluid may enter a common fluid channel, where it may be prevented fromentering the outlet passageway 130 by the integrated valve 105.

The plunger housing 122 of the integrated valve 105 may be formedintegrally with the manifold 102. Enclosed within the plunger housing122, the plunger head 127 defined by the plunger 120 may be positionedto contact the plunger spring 121. As shown, the plunger arm 124 mayextend away from the spring 121. The plunger housing 122 may define anintegral plunger arm receiving portion 137 that encloses the plunger arm124. The plunger arm receiving portion 137 may define a first plungerarm receiving portion 138 configured to fluidly couple with the airinlet 109 and a second plunger arm receiving portion 140 configured tocouple with the common fluid channel. Relative to the plunger spring121, the distal end of the second plunger arm receiving portion 140 maybe fluidly coupled to the common fluid channel. Because the plungerhousing 122 may be fluidly coupled with the air inlet 109, air injectedinto the inlet 109 may fill the air fill space 123 of the plungerhousing 122. Injection of air into the air fill space 123 may cause theplunger 120, particularly the plunger head 127, to move against theforce of the plunger spring 121 in the direction of the arrow. Movementof the plunger 120 in this direction may lift the plunger tip 125 suchthat the plunger tip is removed from a fluid inlet defined by theplunger seat 126. Once uncovered, the fluid inlet defined by the plungerseat 126 may allow the motive fluid to escape from the internal commonfluid channel, via a dispensing fluid outlet 141, into the outletpassageway 130. In other words, the plunger tip 125 may seal an openingto the outlet passageway 130 when the plunger 120 is in a first, closedposition. The closed position may be maintained by the plunger spring121, which exerts a constant downward force on the plunger 120. In thismanner, the spring 121 may close the integrated valve 105. The plunger120 may be moved to a second, open position by the injection ofpressurized air via the air inlet 109 into the air fill space 123defined by the plunger housing 122. The air may urge the plunger 120upward, pushing the plunger head 127 against the spring 121, such thatthe spring may compress between the plunger head 127 and an internalsurface of the spring cap 108. Movement of the plunger 120 in thismanner may cause the plunger tip 125 to be removed from a fluid inletdefined by the plunger seat 126, thus allowing the motive fluid to enterthe outlet passageway 130 via the dispensing fluid outlet 141. Theplunger seat 126 may be defined by the integrally-formed portion of themanifold 102 and may sealingly engage the plunger arm 124 to block orclose the fluid inlet defined by the plunger seat 126 when the plungerspring 121 moves the plunger arm 124 to the closed position. In thismanner, the plunger 120 and the manifold 102 may be free of additionalsealing components for purposes of closing and/or sealing the plungerseat fluid inlet.

As shown in FIG. 2, one or more plunger arm O-rings 143 may becircumferentially arranged about the plunger arm 124 to provide a sealbetween the plunger arm 124 and the plunger arm receiving portion 137 ofthe plunger housing 122 to prevent fluid, e.g., a motive fluid such aswater, from escaping an interior of the manifold 102 and entering theair fill space 123 of the integrated valve 105. For instance, theO-rings 143 may provide a seal that separates the first and secondplunger arm receiving portions 138, 140 from one another. In someexamples, the plunger arm O-rings 143 may provide an air-tight seal inthe manifold 102 on opposite sides of the air inlet 109 in order for theintegrated valve 105 to retain pressurized air during operation andcause the plunger arm 124 to move in the manner necessary to effect theopening of the integrated valve 105. In embodiments, the number andlocation of plunger arm O-rings 143 may vary. In some examples, theplunger arm O-rings 143 may be included in the plunger housing 122.

As further shown in FIG. 2, the plunger housing 122 may define aninternal, circumferential threaded portion 144. The threaded portion 144may be complementary to an exterior threaded portion 145 defined by thespring cap 108. Thus, the spring cap 108 may be adapted to screw intothe plunger housing 122 of the manifold 102 via complementary threadedportions defined by the two components. Together, the spring cap 108 andthe plunger housing 122 may completely enclose the plunger 120 andplunger spring 121 within the manifold 102. The plunger head 127 mayalso include one or more circumferential O-rings 128 that may sealinglyengage with an internal circumference of the plunger housing 122proximate a first side of the integrated valve 105 with respect to theair inlet 109. The plunger head O-rings 128 may prevent the leakage ofair from the air fill space 123 to maintain air pressure levels thereinthat may be necessary to effect movement of the plunger 120 uponinjection of air at the air inlet 109.

When attached to the manifold 102, the eductor 103 may be in fluidcommunication with the outlet passageway 130. In particular, the eductor103 may define a cavity 146 adapted to receive the manifold outletnozzle 118. Through the manifold outlet nozzle 118, the motive fluid mayexit the manifold 102 and enter the eductor 103, where it may be mixedwith a chemical input. In embodiments, the cavity 146 may be configuredas an eductor leg for coupling to the supply source of concentratedchemicals or gases.

The eductor 103 may be configured as a Venturi-style apparatus, such asthe Venturi eductor of U.S. Pat. No. 8,807,158. As such, the eductor 103may define a Venturi throat 147 and a diverging flow path 148 to allow acombination of motive fluid and chemical to be conducted away from theeductor 103 and the manifold 102 for dispensing. The Venturi throat 147may define a cross-sectional diameter that is less than thecross-sectional diameter of the outlet passageway 130 and the eductoroutlet 107. As a result, the motive fluid velocity may increase whenpassing through the Venturi throat 147 and decrease after exiting theVenturi throat 147. Consequently, pressure within the Venturi throat 147may decrease, forming a first pressure zone upstream of the Venturithroat and a second pressure zone within it. The fluid pressure withinthe first pressure zone may be higher than that in the second pressurezone. In embodiments, the pressure within the first pressure zone mayrange from about 250 to about 750 psi, about 300 to about 700 psi, about350 to about 650 psi, about 400 to about 600 psi, about 450 to about 550psi, about 475 to about 525 psi, or about 500 psi. The pressure withinthe second pressure zone may range from about 50 to about 350 psi, about100 to about 300 psi, about 150 to about 250 psi, about 175 to about 225psi, or about 200 psi. The low pressure within the Venturi throat 147may create a suction force that draws chemicals into a mixing zone,where it mixes with the motive fluid. The resulting mixture may thenpass through the diverging flow path 148 and outward through the eductoroutlet 107.

In embodiments, the eductor 103 may be removably detachable from themanifold 102 via the coupling mechanism 104. The coupling mechanism 104may be variously configured depending on multiple considerations, suchas the size of the manifold 102 and the eductor 103, the desired levelof user accessibility, and/or the manner and ease by which the eductor103 is attached to and removed from the manifold 102. Accordingly, thecoupling mechanism 104 may include various components and/or surfacesdefined by or included in the manifold 102 that are complementary tocomponents and/or surfaces defined by or included in the eductor 103.

As shown in FIG. 2, for example, the coupling mechanism 104 may includeone or more jaws 134, a sleeve 132, a collar 133, a coupling spring 150,a spiral retaining ring 151 and the manifold outlet nozzle 118. Thecollar 133 may be integrally formed with the manifold 102 and mayfacilitate securing the jaws 134 to the eductor 103 by providing asurface for the jaws 134 to bear against. Together, the collar 133, jaws134 and manifold outlet nozzle 118 may receive the body inlet 146 of theeductor 103, which may be configured with an external and/or an internalprofile adapted for coupling with the coupling mechanism 104. A couplingspring 150 may be reversibly actuated to enable the coupling and releaseof the eductor 103. As further shown in FIG. 2, the eductor 103 mayinclude a circumferential indentation or recess 136 configured toreversibly mate with the protruding jaws 134 of the coupling mechanism104. In embodiments, the eductor 103 may include a threaded connection,a flanged connection, a latch, a sliding pin, and/or a push-inconnection to facilitate mating with the coupling mechanism 104. Whilethe particular example shown in FIG. 2 includes two wedge-shaped jaws134 configured to engage with a complementary external recess 136defined by the eductor 103, any number of jaws 134 in any configurationmay be used to secure the manifold 102 to the eductor 103. In someexamples, the jaws 134 may be constructed of metal, e.g., stainlesssteel, or of an inert polymer composition. The spiral retaining ring 151may be included in the eductor 103 and or the manifold outlet nozzle118. In some implementations, the manifold outlet nozzle 118 may includeone or more O-rings adapted to seal against an internal circumference ofthe eductor 103. In some examples, the eductor 103 may include one ormore O-rings adapted to seal against an external surface of the manifoldoutlet nozzle 118.

In operation of the coupling mechanism 104, when the collar 133 andsleeve 132 are moved to a first position, e.g., under the force of thecoupling spring 150, the jaws 134 may be restrained from moving and mayfirmly grasp the eductor 103, thereby enabling a sealing connection withthe manifold outlet nozzle 118. When it is desired to remove the eductor103 from the manifold 102, the sleeve 132 may be lifted or rotated,e.g., by hand, to provide the jaws 134 with a clearance that enables thejaws to circumferentially move out of position, thereby allowing theeductor 103 to be detached from the manifold 102. Lifting or rotatingthe sleeve 132 may be performed against the resting state of thecoupling spring 150, such that the coupling mechanism 104 returns to alocked state upon releasing the sleeve 132. In some examples, thecoupling spring 150 may be a spiral or torsion spring.

In some examples, the coupling mechanism 104 may include a threadedconnection between the sleeve 132 and the collar 133 which may enablethe sleeve 132 to rotate about the collar 133 such that in a firstposition of the sleeve, the collar 133 engages the jaws 134 about theexternal circumference, thereby locking the eductor 103 into a secureengagement with the manifold 102. In a second position of the sleeve148, the collar 133 disengages the jaws 134 to enable a user to slidethe collar 133 out of the way of the jaws 134, thereby allowing theeductor 103 to be removed from the manifold 102. In this secondposition, the collar 133 may constrain the jaws 134 from moving so faras to fall out of their respective retaining slots in the manifold. Thecoupling spring 150 may hold the sleeve 132 in the first position suchthat the collar 133 is urged into a circumferential engagement with thejaws 134.

In embodiments, the coupling mechanism 104 may not require rotation ofthe sleeve 132. For instance, the sleeve 132 may include an internalbead or flange adapted to cause the collar 133 to engage the jaws 134 ina compression lock. In this configuration, the sleeve 132 may translatealong the collar 133 from a first position to a second position withoutthe requirement that the sleeve 132 be rotated. In the first position ofthe sleeve 132, the collar 133 may compress the jaws 134 in acompression lock with the eductor 103, thereby establishing a securecoupling with the manifold 102. In the second position of the sleeve132, the collar 133 may move to a relaxed position such that theinternal circumference of the collar disengages the jaws 134 to enablethe eductor 106 to be removed from the manifold 102.

In some examples, the coupling mechanism 104 may include one or morerecesses, ledges, or shelves defined by the manifold outlet nozzle 118and/or the collar 133. In such examples, the eductor 103 may include oneor more slidable latches or pins, biased by a spring, that extend awayfrom the surface of the eductor 103 in a resting state of the spring.The latches or pins may reversibly mate with the shelf portions definedby the manifold 102, such that after extending into a shelf portion, alatch may rest thereon, securing the eductor 103 to the manifold againstthe downward force of gravity.

As further shown in FIG. 2, the end cap 113 may enclose one end of themanifold 102. As a result, the manifold 102 shown is a single inlet,single outlet manifold. The end cap 113 may be coupled with the manifold102 according to various mechanisms. In embodiments, the end cap 113 mayinclude one or more circumferential O-rings to prevent leakage of motivefluid out of the manifold 102. In addition or alternatively, themanifold 102 may include one or more O-rings in circumferentialengagement with an internal surface of the end cap 113.

In some implementations, the coupling component, e.g., spring clip, usedfor coupling and/or locking manifolds 102 to other manifolds 102,manifolds to end caps 113, and/or manifolds to inlet connectors 112, maybe a highly-loaded component which may exert a force on the manifold orother component that requires load distribution. For example, themanifold may include a metallic (e.g., stainless steel) insert in aregion corresponding to where the coupling component is to engage themanifold, such as the band 131 shown in FIG. 2. The metallic band 131may be molded into the integrally-constructed portion of the manifold102 during manufacture. In some implementations, the metallic band 131may be arranged along the connector branch 115, proximate the outlet ofthe common fluid channel. In another example, the inlet connector 112may be constructed of metal in order to distribute the load exerted bythe inlet locking member 116 across the connector. In someimplementations, spring clips used herein may be metallic, e.g.,stainless steel. Alternatively, one or more spring clips may be plastic.For instance, the clip may be a high-strength engineered plastic such asUltem. It may also be made of fiber reinforced matt or other material,so long as sized appropriately to take the manifold 102 separating loadsimposed by the manifold water pressure.

In embodiments, various components of the manifold 102 may be integrallyconstructed. The integral construction may, for instance, be by molding(e.g., injection molding) a chemically inert polymer such as HDPE, PTFEor PVDF. Some non-integral components of the manifold may be constructedof inert polymers, such as the plunger 120, while others may beconstructed of metal, such as spring clips, helical springs and inletconnectors. To decrease the cost of the parts and/or improve chemicalresistance, it may be desirable to have components of the manifold 102molded from a plastic material. These may additionally or alternativelybe machined or additive manufacturing may be used for theirconstruction. The assemblies of the present disclosure may beparticularly useful in the car wash and industrial cleaning industries.

FIG. 3 illustrates a manifold assembly 300 including a single inlet andtwo outlets, according to certain implementations. As shown, themanifold assembly 300 includes two modular manifolds: a first manifold102 a (depicted on the left) and a second manifold 102 b (depicted onthe right), each manifold (or manifold “section”) defining a singleinlet and a single outlet, consistent with the representations of FIGS.1 and 2. The manifolds 102 a, 102 b are joined together in aside-by-side arrangement, such that the components of each individualmanifold 102 a, 102 b are oriented in the same direction. The individualmanifolds 102 a, 102 b may be fluidly coupled by the common channelfluid channel that extends laterally between them (shown in FIG. 4). Inoperation, a motive fluid may enter the manifold assembly 300 throughthe fluid inlet 111 and exit the assembly through each of two manifoldoutlet nozzles 118 a, 118 b. While not depicted in FIG. 3, an eductormay be coupled with each of the two manifold sections.

The individual manifolds 102 a, 102 b, may be joined to one anotherusing various coupling devices described herein. For example, themanifolds 102 a, 102 b may include or define complementary threadedportions, such that the manifolds may be screwed together by a user. Inembodiments, one or more connector locking members 152, which in theexample shown is a spring clip, may extend into one or morecomplementary receiving apertures defined by the connector branch 115 aof the first manifold 102 a, and the inlet branch 114 b of the secondmanifold 102 b. Upon bringing the two manifolds 102 a, 102 b together inthe arrangement shown in FIG. 3, the apertures may align, therebyallowing insertion of the spring clip 152 to reversibly lock the twomanifolds in place. In some examples, the manifolds 102 a, 102 b may bejoined together by a latching mechanism, one or more coupling pinsand/or a snap-lock mechanism. In embodiments, one or both manifolds 102a and/or 102 b may include a button that may be pressed or otherwiseactuated by a user to lock or unlock the manifolds. The manifolds 102 a,102 b may also be joined using one or more fasteners, e.g., bolts and/orscrews. In some examples, the manifolds 102 a, 102 b may be sealinglycoupled using, for example, internally positioned sealing rings, such asO-rings. See e.g., FIG. 6. Similar to the embodiment shown in FIG. 1,the terminal end of the common fluid channel, e.g., the end defined bythe connector branch 115 a that can be coupled with an adjacent fluidinlet 111 b via an inlet connector 112, may be sealed by an end cap 113and secured by an end cap locking member 117, e.g., a spring clip. Whencoupling a manifold, such as manifold 102 b, to an end cap 113, the endcap locking member 117 may slide into an internally-protruding receivingaperture defined by the end cap 113. An outwardly protruding arc of theend cap locking member 117 may couple to an external circumference ofthe manifold housing or band 131, as shown in FIG. 7. Other lockingmembers, e.g., 116 and 152, may be configured similarly or the same asthe aforementioned spring clip.

According to the present disclosure, spring clips may couple themanifolds 102 a, 102 b to inlet connectors 112, end caps 113 and/oradditional modular manifold sections. In some examples, the manifoldcomponents and/or sections may also be coupled by various connectionmeans. For example, quick-connect fitting components commonly referredto as “push-to-connect,”“quick connect couplers,” “water quick connect,”and other names may be used. The manifold components and/or sections mayalso be joined by flange connections that are joined by collars that aresnapped into place to resist the separating force of the manifolds 102a, 102 b. These collars may be snapped into place over two joiningflanges where a flange is on each of two manifold sections 102 a, 102 bor a manifold section and an end cap, for instance.

While the manifold assembly 300 illustrated in FIG. 3 includes twomanifold sections 102 a, 102 b, manifold assemblies may include morethan two manifold sections. In addition or alternatively, manifoldassemblies may be arranged in different configurations. For example,manifold assemblies may include non-linear arrangements of manifoldsections 102. Such embodiments may include adapters positioned betweeneach manifold section. The adapters may be variously sized and shaped,and in some examples, customized to a user's specifications. Variouslysized/shaped adapters may allow the manifold assemblies to be mounted insmall and/or irregularly shaped spaces unable to accommodatelaterally-extending manifold assemblies.

Whether standing alone or arranged in an assembly, the manifolds 102disclosed herein may maintain the motive fluid at a specific pressure orpressure range from the moment of input to the moment of output. Forinstance, the integrated valve 105 and manifold outlet nozzle 118 may besized to allow for a small pressure loss of less than about 10 psi fromthe fluid inlet 111, through the manifold 102, to each manifold outletnozzle 118. In embodiments, the pressure loss may range from about 1 psito about 100 psi, about 1 to about 50 psi, about 1 to about 25 psi,about 1 to about 20 psi, or about 5 to about 15 psi.

In some examples, each manifold 102 may be configured to receive, viathe air inlet 109, air pressurized at about 80 to about 100 psi, andwater pressure at the manifold outlet nozzle 118 may be at about 500psi, which may be useful in certain car wash applications that usehigh-pressure, rotating nozzles for rinsing and cleaning. In anotherexample, the air pressure upon receipt by the manifold 102 may be thesame as the water pressure at the manifold outlet nozzle 118. In suchexamples, the air pressure and water pressure may be at about 280 psi,which may be useful in certain eductor applications applicable in boththe car wash and the industrial cleaning industries.

FIG. 4 illustrates the manifold assembly 300 with a large eductor 154and a small eductor 156 joined thereto. The large eductor 154 is fluidlycoupled to the left manifold 102 a via the coupling mechanism 104 asshown and described in connection with FIG. 2. The small eductor 156 isfluidly coupled to the right manifold 102 b by way of an adapter 157.The adapter 157 may enable different applicators or eductors to befluidly coupled to a manifold outlet nozzle 118 of the manifold assembly300.

Generally, the adapter 157 is a coupling mechanism configured to coupleto an outlet or a manifold outlet nozzle 118 at one end, and includes amechanism configured to accept a smaller or larger diameter eductor 103at a second end. In some implementations, the adapter 157 may includethe same coupling mechanism as the coupling mechanism 104 shown anddescribed in with FIG. 2, but scaled to a different size to enable theadapter to receive the smaller or larger diameter eductor. Accordingly,in the implementation of FIG. 4, the adapter 157 is configured with thecoupling mechanism of FIG. 2 and is scaled to a smaller size to enablecoupling with the smaller diameter eductor 156.

Different manifold outlets may have differently sized applicators,eductors, nozzles or other devices requiring flow. Because eductors maybe configured based on their application of use, the implementations ofthe present disclosure may employ adapters to enable a wide range ofapplicators, eductors, and/or eductor assemblies to be fluidly coupledto the manifold 102 or manifold assembly 300. In this fashion, themanifold may be further modular as it can accommodate many types ofnozzles, applicators or eductors.

FIG. 5 illustrates a cross-section of the integrated manifold assembly300 and eductors 154, 156 of FIG. 4. Each manifold 102 a, 102 b includedin the manifold assembly 300 includes an integrated valve 105. Theinternal components of each integrated valve 105 resemble those shown inFIG. 2. For instance, each valve 105 includes a plunger 120 and aplunger spring 121, each of which is enclosed within a plunger housing122 and a spring cap 108. Each plunger 120 includes an elongate plungerarm 124 that defines a plunger tip 125 at a distal end of the plungerarm opposite the plunger spring 121. The plunger tip 125 rests, in aclosed position, on a plunger seat 126. The spring 121 of eachrespective integrated valve 105 may be held between the spring cap 108and the plunger head 127 and may transmit a force from the plunger 120against the spring cap 108. A plunger head O-ring 128 is included withineach plunger 120, and one or more plunger arm O-rings 143 in eachplunger arm 124. Each manifold section 102 may be identical in thisembodiment.

In this example, the integrated manifold assembly 300 is configured asan air-powered valve that includes integrated air valves 105. As such,the air valves 105 of the manifold assembly 300 are closed by springpressure and opened by air pressure, according to the same mechanismused to open and close the integrated valve 105 shown in FIG. 2. In someexamples, each manifold 102 a, 102 b may be independently operated suchthat air may be received at one manifold, but not the other. Forinstance, the integrated valve 105 of the left manifold 102 a may bemoved to an open position, while the integrated valve 105 of the othermanifold 102 b may remain in a closed position. In other words, one ormore sections 102 may be in an “off” state in which its integrated valve105 is closed, while one or more other sections 102 may be in an “on”state, in which its integrated valve 105 is open. The selective openingand closing of each valve may be accomplished by selectivelypressurizing individual plunger housings 122 with air. Independentoperation of each manifold may thus enable different chemicals to beemitted at different times, without altering the chemical sourcescoupled with the manifold assembly 300. In other embodiments, eachmanifold within a manifold assembly may be operated in a coordinatedmanner such that the integrated valve 105 defined by each manifold isopened and closed in unison. In some examples, the coordination betweenindividual manifold sections within a manifold assembly may becontrolled remotely, for example using a computer.

FIG. 6 illustrates a cross-section of the manifold assembly 300 and eachcoupling mechanism 104 of FIGS. 3-5 through a common fluid channel 158of the manifold assembly. As shown, the manifold sections 102 a, 102 bmay be joined such that the manifold assembly 300 defines one commonmotive fluid inlet 111, a common fluid channel 158, two integral valves105, and two outlets. Via the common fluid channel 158, motive fluid mayflow from the first manifold section 102 a to the next manifold section102 b. Accordingly, the common fluid channel 158 fluidly couples themanifold sections 102 a, 102 b. Each manifold section 102 a, 102 b maydefine a dispensing fluid outlet 141 connecting the common fluid channel158 to the outlet passageway 130 defined by each manifold section. Suchfluid outlets may be opened and closed independently withinindependently controlled manifolds.

As shown in FIG. 6, the inlet connector 112 b of the right manifold 102b may be received by a portion of the common fluid channel 158 defined,at least in part, by the left manifold 102 a, e.g., the connector branch115 a of the manifold 102 a. This modularity and ease of assembly mayfacilitate many variations of a common manifold system. This modularityalso allows a manifold assembly to be easily expanded to accommodateadditional manifold sections and/or outlets. To facilitate expansion,each inlet connector 112, as well as the end cap 113, may be configuredto be easy to assemble and easy to remove. As shown, one or more sealingrings 160, e.g., O-rings, may be included in each manifold 102 a, 102 b.The sealing rings 160 may seal adjacent manifold sections, such asmanifolds 102 a, 102 b. For example, the sealing rings 160 positionedbetween manifolds 102 a, 102 b may be included in a circumferentialexterior portion of the inlet connector 112 b and/or a circumferentialinterior portion of the manifold body, such as the inlet branch 114 b.Multiple sealing rings may be included to seal each successive manifoldsection included in the manifold assembly 300. Near the sealing rings160 of coupled manifolds and manifolds coupled to end caps 113, a band131 may be included. The band 131 may be adjacent to each lockingmember, e.g., spring clip, included in the modular assembly, such as theconnector locking member 152 and the end cap locking member 117.

As further shown in FIG. 6, a portion of the large eductor 154 isvisible. The smaller eductor 156, coupled to the adapter 157, is notvisible in this cross-sectional plane.

FIG. 7 illustrates a cross-section of the coupling between manifolds 102a, 102 b shown in FIGS. 3-6, illustrating the interior details of themodular connection. The manifold coupling may facilitate the ease ofassembly and modularity of the manifold assemblies of the presentdisclosure. The manifold coupling shown in FIG. 7 includes a connectorlocking member 152, which in this embodiment is a spring clip. As shown,the spring clip 152 may be U-shaped with each arm of the U including anoutwardly protruding arc 162. When coupling the manifold 102 to an inletconnector 112, the arms of the connector spring clip 152 may slide intoone or more passages, apertures or grooves defined by the manifold 102,and the outwardly protruding arc 162 of the connector spring clip 152may couple to an external circumference of the inlet connector 112. Whencoupling the manifold to an adjacent manifold section, the arms of theconnector spring clip 152 may slide into a passage defined by a firstmanifold, and the outwardly protruding arc of the spring clip may coupleto an external circumference of the second manifold. When in a coupledposition, an internal circumference of the outwardly protruding arc 162may be similar to that of a portion of an external circumference of themanifold housing where the coupling is configured to occur, e.g., at acircumference of the manifold housing.

FIG. 7 also shows a cross section of the common fluid channel 158. Asshown, the common fluid channel 158 is arranged transverse to the axisbetween the integrated valve 105 and the eductor 156. The connectorspring clip 152, along with its receiving passages, may be arrangedaround the exterior perimeter of the common fluid channel 158 to avoidinterfering with the stream of motive fluid passing therethrough. Theextension of the mounting feet 110 laterally away from the manifold 102b is also visible, as is an electrical connector 163 that connects theintegrated valve 105 to an electrical outlet.

FIG. 8 shows a cross-sectional view of the manifold 102 b coupled to thesmall eductor 156 shown in FIG. 5. This cross-sectional view is takenalong a plane perpendicular to that depicted in FIG. 2. As furthershown, an integral air passageway 164 may extend from the rear portionof the air inlet 109, which includes a half cartridge configurationexternal air pressure port in the embodiment shown. Through the integralair passageway 164, air may enter the air fill space 123, thusincreasing the air pressure within the plunger housing 122 to amagnitude sufficient to overcome the spring force of the plunger spring121, thereby effecting movement of the plunger 120 against the spring121. Various air pressure ports may be used in different embodiments. Insome examples, the port may be configured for attachment to an airline,commonly via threads, or in the embodiments shown in FIGS. 1-5, apush-to-connect fitting. The push-to-connect fitting in this embodimentis a half cartridge push-to-connect. A half cartridge push-to-connectmeans that the manifold is used to form the outer housing of thepush-to-connect fitting. Therefore, the integral components of themanifold may include components of the push-to-connect air fitting andmay define a sealing surface between the push-to-connect fitting and anair passage integral to the manifold.

A cross-sectional view of the integrally formed common fluid channel 158is also shown in FIG. 8. The common fluid channel 158 has a circularcross-sectional shape in this example, but other shapes may be defined.The size of the common fluid channel, both absolute and relative toother components of the manifold, may also vary in differentembodiments. For example, embodiments in which multiple manifoldsections are joined together may necessitate common fluid channels witha greater cross sectional area so that the manifold sections furthestfrom the motive fluid inlet may receive an adequate amount of motivefluid at an adequate pressure.

As further shown, the common fluid channel 158 may be offset from thevertical axis taken along the plunger arm 124. To allow fluid toselectively escape the common fluid channel 158 and enter the outletpassageway 130 for eventual mixing with chemicals received via theeductor, the manifold 102 b defines at least one dispensing fluid outlet141. The dispensing fluid outlet 141 defines the connection between thecommon fluid channel 158 and the outlet passageway 130 of the manifold102 b. The selective flow of motive fluid through the dispensing fluidoutlet 141 is controlled by the integrated valve 105. As describedherein, motive fluid can only pass through the dispensing fluid outlet141 via the opening defined by the plunger seat 126. When the integratedvalve 105 is in a closed position, the plunger tip 125 plugs thisopening defined by the plunger seat 126, thereby preventing the flow ofmotive fluid from the common fluid channel 158 into the outletpassageway 130. As shown, in embodiments, the plunger seat 126 mayextend across the entire lateral width of the outlet passageway 130.Only by moving the plunger 120 upward, against the force of the plungerspring 121, upon the injection of pressurized air via the inlet 109, isthe plunger tip 125 removed from the plunger seat 126, thus allowingmotive fluid to exit the common fluid channel 158, flow through thedispensing fluid outlet 141, and enter the outlet passageway 130.

FIG. 8 also provides another vantage point of the coupling mechanism 104of the manifold 102 b, as well as the adapter 157. As shown, thecoupling mechanism 104 of the manifold is coupled with the adapter 157.The jaws 134 of the coupling mechanism 104 protrude into acomplementary, circumferential recess 166 defined by the adapter 157,the top portion of which may resemble an eductor, such as the eductor103 shown in FIG. 2. The adapter 157 may also include one or morecomponents resembling the coupling mechanism 104, albeit at a smallerscale in this embodiment. For instance, the adapter 157 may include anintegrally formed collar 167, an adapter sleeve 168, and one or moreadapter jaws 169, the jaws configured to mate with a circumferentialrecess 171 defined by the small eductor 156. The adapter 157 may alsoinclude an adapter nozzle 172, from which motive fluid may be ejectedfrom the adapter into the small eductor 156 for mixing and eventualemission. The adapter outlet passageway 173 is also shown. When coupledwith both the eductor 156 and the coupling mechanism 104, the adapteroutlet passageway 173 connects the outlet passageway 130 of the manifold102 to the eductor 156. Since the eductor 156 shown in FIG. 8 is smallerthan the eductor 103 shown in FIG. 1, for example, the diameter of theoutlet passageway 173 narrows in closer proximity to the eductor 156.Accordingly, the velocity of the motive fluid may increase as the motivefluid passes through the adapter outlet passageway 173, thus loweringthe pressure therein.

FIG. 9 shows an integrated manifold assembly 900 that includes threeintegrally formed manifold sections 902. As such, the manifold sections902 may not be removably connected or coupled, but rather inseparablycombined to form the manifold assembly 900. Each manifold section 902 isshown coupled with an eductor 903 via a latch member 904. Each manifoldsection 902 includes an integrated valve 905. An integrated air channel906 and a common fluid channel 907 extend between the three manifoldsections 902. In operation, pressurized air may be injected into the airchannel 906 via at least one air pressure port 908. A motive fluid maybe simultaneously injected into the common fluid channel 907 via amotive fluid inlet 909, for instance, defined by an inlet plug 910. Eachintegrated valve 905 may be formed with or coupled to one solenoid valve912, which includes electrical connectors 913 configured for insertioninto complementary electrical outlets. Collectively, the components ofthe manifold assembly 900 may operate as a unitary fluid delivery systemconfigured to simultaneously emit multiple different fluid mixtures.

The integrated valves 905 formed with the integrated manifold assembly900 may be air valves. As such, the integrated valves 905 may open andclose in response to pressurized air flowing through the integrated airchannel 906. For example, the input of pressurized air into the channel906 may cause one or more integrated valves 905 to open internally uponactuation of one or more respective solenoid valves 912. Upon actuation,the integrated valve(s) 905 may open and a portion of the motive fluidpassing through the common fluid channel 907 may be redirected into oneor more eductors 903 shown in FIG. 9.

The number and configuration of the integrated valves 905 may vary. Asshown in FIG. 9, an integrally-formed mounting structure 914 may spanthe space between each integrated valve 905. In some examples, themounting structure 914 may include or define one or more additionalstructures used to mount the manifold assembly 900 to a surface, such asa wall. As further shown, a spring cap 915 may enclose an end of eachvalve 905. Each spring cap 915 may include a plurality of cap indents916 to facilitate user handling, e.g., improve hand grip or tool mating.Each solenoid valve 912 coupled with each integrated valve 905 maycontain an electrical coil. Together, the solenoid valves 912 andintegrated valves 905 may operate cooperatively to drive movement of theplunger 918. To enable actuation of the solenoid valves 912, electricalconnectors 913 may protrude from an external surface thereof. Thesolenoid valves 912 may be operated by an external controller, e.g., acomputer.

An air pressure port 908 may be included at one or more ends of theintegrated manifold assembly 900. In some examples, such as that shown,the air pressure port 908 may define a push-to-connect fitting, such asthe push-to-connect fitting of the port defining the air inlet 122 shownin FIG. 8. An external airline connected to the port 908 may injectpressurized air into the common air channel 906. The common air channel906 may extend laterally across all of the manifold sections 902included in the manifold assembly 900, such that each integrated valve905 is fluidly coupled with the common air channel 906. In the exampleshown in FIG. 9, the air channel 906 is positioned above the commonfluid channel 907, such that the air channel 906 runs parallel to thefluid channel 907. In some examples, the relative positioning of thecommon air conduit and the common fluid conduit 907 may vary.

As further shown in FIG. 9, the common fluid channel 907 may beintegrally formed with the manifold assembly 900. The common fluidchannel 907 may include a fluid inlet plug 910 at one or both ends.Embodiments including an inlet plug 910 at both ends may be closed atone end by an end cap, such as end cap 920 shown in FIG. 9. To couplethe inlet plug 910 with the common fluid channel 907, an inletconnecting segment 921 may be formed with or coupled to the manifoldassembly 900. The connecting segment 921 may serve as an adapter, whichmay vary in size and/or shape in some examples. Generally, thecross-sectional shape of the connecting segment 921 may resemble thecross-sectional shape of the portion of the inlet plug 910 that mateswith the connecting segment 921. As shown, however, the connectingsegment 921 may define one or more protruding portions 922. Suchportions 922 may define one or more apertures each configured to receivea fastener 923. The fasteners 923 may pass through an additionalaperture integrally defined within the manifold body, thus securing theconnecting segment 921 to the manifold assembly 900. In someembodiments, the protruding portions 922 may also be used to couple thefluid inlet plug 910 with the connecting segment 921 in a properorientation. As further shown, the inlet plug 910 may define one or moreindents 924. Such indents 924 may facilitate user handling, similar tothe indented portions 916 defined by the end caps 915. The indents 924may also provide substantially flat surfaces configured to bear againstthe each fastener 923 secured to the connecting segment 921.

One or more eductors 903 may be coupled with the manifold assembly 900,with each eductor 903 coupled directly to one manifold section 902. Eacheductor 903 may be sealingly coupled with a manifold section 902. Insome examples, each eductor 903 may be threadably coupled to an internalport defined by each manifold section 902. Each eductor 903 may becoupled with the manifold assembly 900 via a latch member couplingmechanism 926, which includes a latch member 904 that may be slidablyinserted into a latch member receiving space such that each arm of thelatch member 904 is positioned within a locking bore.

Each eductor 903 may define or be coupled with an injection housing 927.The injection housing 927 may further define a chemical inlet 928 and abarbed fitting 929. The barbed fitting 929 may be configured forattachment to conventional chemical supply tubing and/or piping. Aftersecuring such tubing and/or piping to the barbed fitting 929, aconcentrated chemical, gas, or other concentrated input may be injectedinto the injection housing 927 of the eductor 903. For consistency, a“chemical” input is again referenced with respect to the featuresdescribed herein. After injection, the chemicals may mix with a motivefluid passing through each eductor 903. In the arrangement shown in FIG.9, the concentrated input and motive fluid may converge at aperpendicular angle within eductor 903, where the two fluids are mixed.After mixing, the diluted fluid may be emitted from the eductor 903through a threaded outlet 930, shown in FIG. 9 at a bottom end of theeductor 903. In some examples, each eductor 903 may be coupled to adifferent supply source, such that each eductor receives a differentchemical for mixing.

FIG. 10 shows another view of the integrated manifold assembly 900illustrated in FIG. 9. The perspective shown in FIG. 10 depicts themanifold cap 920 coupled with the manifold assembly 900 at an end of thecommon fluid channel 907 opposite the motive fluid inlet 909. Twomanifold cap fasteners 932 are also shown coupled with the manifold cap920. The manifold cap fasteners 932 may be received bycomplementary-shaped apertures integrally formed with the manifoldassembly 900, thus coupling the manifold cap 920 to the manifoldassembly 900. As further shown, an air pressure port 908 is alsoincluded at a second end of the common air channel 906.

FIG. 11 is a schematic illustration of an exploded component view of theintegrated manifold assembly 900 in the orientation shown in FIG. 9. Theexploded view shown in FIG. 11 illustrates components of the integratedassembly 900 that may be non-integrated in some examples. As such, thecomponents shown separated from the body of the assembly 900 may beattached, secured, or otherwise coupled thereto. The plunger 918 andplunger spring 933 may be included within each integrated valve 905.These two components, among others, may be enclosed within a plungerhousing 934, such that the components are concealed therein, with aspring cap 915 coupled to the end of each housing. As shown, the springcap 915 may define a circumferential spring cap threaded portion 935 tofacilitate coupling the end cap with an interior threaded portion 937 ofeach plunger housing 934. The plunger 918 may define a tip portion 938at one end and a plunger head 939 at the opposite end. The plunger head939 may define a circular plunger spring receiving space 940 configuredto receive an end of the plunger spring 933. An elongate plunger arm 941may extend between the plunger tip 938 and the plunger head 939. Alongthe arm 941, the plunger may include one or more plunger arm O-rings 942disposed within radial grooves. The plunger arm O-rings 942 may separatethe fluid-filled interior compartments of the manifold assembly 900 fromthe air-filled compartments. As described in greater detail, eachintegrated valve 905 may be sealed off from any fluid contact, such thatthe plunger head 939, plunger spring 933, and spring cap 915 each remaindry during operation of the manifold assembly 900. The plunger 918 mayfurther include one or more plunger head O-rings 943 circumferentiallysurrounding the exterior of the plunger head 939. The plunger headO-rings 943 may seal against a circumferential interior portion of theplunger housing 934 such that such that air pressure does not escape theintegrated valve 905.

FIG. 11 also illustrates additional details of the portion of eacheductor 903 configured to couple with each manifold section 902. Forexample, opposite the threaded outlet 930, each eductor 903 may define atapered leading edge 945. The tapered configuration of the leading edge945 may facilitate slidable insertion of the eductor 903 into thereceiving space defined by the manifold assembly 900. As further shown,the eductor 903 may also define a radial sealing groove 946 proximate tothe leading edge 945. In some examples, at least one eductor O-ring 947may be inserted within the sealing groove 946 to seal against aninterior surface of a collar portion defined by each manifold section902.

At the inlet plug connecting segment 921 and the manifold cap 920, oneor more fastener components 948, 949 may be coupled with theirrespective fasteners 923, 932. One or more manifold cap O-rings 950 maybe positioned between an interior surface of the manifold cap 920 and acircumferential portion of the common fluid channel 907. At the oppositeend of the common fluid channel 907, the inlet plug 910 may include oneor more inlet plug O-rings 951 disposed within radial grooves. The inletplug O-rings 951 may also sealingly engage with an internal,circumferential portion of the common fluid channel 907.

The manifold cap 920 may define a cross-sectional shape configured tomate with the integrated manifold assembly 900 without interfering withthe cross-sectional shape of the common fluid channel 907. Inparticular, the cross-sectional shape of the manifold cap may define twocentrally-disposed semi-circle segments 952 flanked by straight segments953. The semi-circular segments 952 may be identical in shape to thecircular perimeter defining the common fluid channel 907. The straightsegments 953 may mate with integral portions of the manifold assembly900 surrounding the common fluid channel. Accordingly, the manifold cap920 may require proper orientation by a user with respect to theintegrated manifold assembly 900 for coupling. In alternativeimplementations, the manifold cap 920, plug connecting segment 921 andconnecting portions of the integrated manifold assembly 900 may beconfigured to mate via multiple orientations and may be secured using avariety of fastener components and fasteners.

Each latch member 904 of the integrated manifold assembly 900 may bepositioned to engage with a latch spring 954 arranged between the latchmember 904 and the latch coupling mechanism 926. To reversibly coupleeach eductor 903 to the manifold assembly 900 via the latch couplingmechanism 926, the latch spring 954 may be compressed and released by auser.

As further shown in FIG. 11, each solenoid valve 912 may be secured tothe manifold assembly 900 via one or more solenoid fasteners 913. Inembodiments, the fasteners 913 may include screws, bolts, pins, or thelike.

FIG. 12 shows an exploded component view of the integrated manifoldassembly 900, in the orientation shown in FIG. 10. Among other things,the integrally formed latch coupling mechanism 926 defined by eachmanifold section 902 is shown. The latch coupling mechanism 926 definesa port for each eductor 903 and a receiving space for each latch member904. In particular, the latch coupling mechanism 926 may define aneductor receiving portion 955 and a latch member receiving portion 956.As shown, the latch member receiving portion 956 may be orientedtransverse to the eductor receiving portion 955. The latch couplingmechanism 926 may include opposing walls 957, 958. The proximal wall 957is positioned nearest the common fluid channel 907 of the manifoldassembly 900, and the distal wall 958 is offset a distance from the bodyof the manifold assembly 900. At least one longitudinally extending wall959 may connect the proximal wall 957 to the distal wall 958. Acircumferential gap between a surface of a latch collar 960 defined bythe latch coupling mechanism 926 and an internal surface of each of theproximal wall 957 and distal wall 958 may define the latch memberreceiving portion 956. The internal aperture defined by the distal wall958 serves as the eductor receiving portion 955 in this embodiment. Asfurther shown, the latch member 904 also defines an eductor aperture 961configured to receive the eductor 903.

In operation, the latch member 904 may be slidably inserted into thelatch member receiving space 956 prior to coupling the eductor 903 withthe latch member coupling mechanism 926. The latch member 904 may beinserted into the latch member receiving portion 956 such that theeductor aperture 961 and the eductor receiving portion 955 align. Insome examples, the eductor 903 may not be receivable by the latchcoupling mechanism 926 until the eductor aperture 961 is aligned withthe eductor receiving portion 955.

FIG. 12 also shows the common fluid channel 907 and the common airchannel 906. As shown, the air inlet 908, which may be a half-cartridgeconfiguration, may be partially inserted into the opening of the commonair channel 906. The manifold cap 920 may define a protruding knob 962for grasping by a user.

FIG. 13 is a side cross-section of the integrated manifold assembly 900,showing the interior of one manifold section 902. As shown, eachmanifold section 902 may define a portion of the integrally constructedcommon fluid channel 907, common air channel 906 and mounting structure914. Each manifold section 902 may also define an integrally constructedfluid outlet 964, plunger housing 934 and latch member couplingmechanism 926. An eductor 926 may be coupled to each manifold section902 via the latch member coupling mechanism 926, and a solenoid valve912 may be coupled with each manifold section 902 at an external face ofthe plunger housing 934.

As shown in FIG. 13, the plunger housing 934 of the integrated valve 905may be formed integrally with each manifold section 902. The plunger 918may be enclosed within the plunger housing 934, and the plunger 918 maydefine a plunger head 939, which may be positioned in direct contact, orat least coupled with, the plunger spring 933. Similar to the plunger126 shown in FIG. 2, the plunger 918 may define an elongate plunger arm941 that extends into the common fluid channel 907. Accordingly, theplunger housing 934 may define an integral plunger arm receiving portion965 that encloses the plunger arm 941. The plunger arm receiving portion965 may define a first plunger arm receiving portion 966 configured tocouple with the common air channel 906, and a second plunger armreceiving portion 967 configured to couple with the common fluid channel907. In particular, the distal end of the second plunger arm receivingportion 967 (relative to the plunger spring 933) may be fluidly coupledto the common fluid channel 907. Because the plunger housing 934 may becoupled with the common air channel 906, air flow through the common airchannel 906 may flow into the air fill space 969 of the plunger housing934 via the air conduit 970. Injection of air into the air fill space969 may cause the plunger 918 to move against the force of the plungerspring 933 in the direction of the arrow. Movement of the plunger 918 inthis direction may lift the plunger tip 938 such that the plunger tip938 is removed from the fluid outlet 964, e.g., the tip 938 unplugs theoutlet. Because the outlet 964 connects the common fluid channel 907 tothe eductor outlet passageway 972, once uncovered, the fluid outlet 964may allow a motive fluid to escape from the common fluid channel 907into each eductor outlet passageway 972.

As shown, a portion of the eductor 903 may be positioned adjacent to thefluid outlet 964 defined by the manifold assembly 900. In otherembodiments, a manifold assembly may define or include a protrudingnozzle that may extend within a receiving area defined by the eductor,similar to the manifold outlet nozzle 146 illustrated in FIG. 2.

The separation of air and fluid inputs within each manifold section 902may be necessary for the operation of each manifold section and theintegrated manifold assembly 900 as a whole. In particular, air receivedat the air inlet 908 may flow into the common air channel 906 and theair fill space 969 of the plunger housing 934 without mixing with thefluid passing through the common fluid channel 907. As shown in FIG. 13,the plunger arm 941 may be in contact with both the pressurized airreceived via the inlet 908 and the motive fluid passing through thecommon fluid channel 907. To ensure complete separation of the air andthe fluid, the plunger arm receiving portion 965 may be configured tosealingly engage with the plunger arm 941. The sealing mechanism mayvary in different embodiments. As shown in FIG. 13, for example, theplunger arm 941 may include one or more plunger arm O-rings 942. Twoplunger arm O-rings 942 are shown, but embodiments may include fewer ormore. The position of the O-rings 942 may also vary, provided they arepositioned between the common fluid channel 907 and the common airchannel 906. Different positioning of one or more plunger arm O-rings942 may reflect changes to the shape or positioning of the plunger arm941 itself. For instance, the plunger arm 941 shown in FIG. 13 definesparallel, longitudinally extending sides that near the common fluidchannel 907, taper toward each other and away from the internal surfacesof the second portion of the plunger arm receiving portion 967. Becausefluid from the common fluid channel 907 may occupy the lateral spacebetween the plunger arm 941 and the second portion of the plunger armreceiving portion 967, the plunger arm O-rings 942 may be critical topreventing fluid from seeping toward the air fill space 969. In someexamples, the O-rings separating the fluid compartments from the aircompartments of each manifold section 902 may be included in the plungerhousing 934 in addition to or instead of the plunger arm 941.

As further shown in FIG. 13, the plunger housing 934 may define ahousing portion configured to receive and couple with the spring cap915. The spring cap 915 may define an external threaded portion 935configured to mate with an interior threaded portion 937 defined by theplunger housing 934. As such, the spring cap 915 may be rotationallyscrewed onto the plunger housing 934. By coupling the spring cap 915with the plunger housing 934, the plunger 918 and plunger spring 933 maybe entirely enclosed, and the air fill space 969 may be air-tight. Toseal the pressurized air within the air fill space 969, one or moreplunger head O-rings 943 may be coupled within the plunger 920. Inaddition or alternatively, one or more O-rings may be coupled with theplunger housing 934. Sealing the components of the plunger housing 934within an air-tight volume may ensure that pressurized air injected intothe air fill space 969 will not leak therefrom. This may be importantfor effecting movement of the plunger 918 in a controlled fashion.

As further shown in FIG. 13, one or more fasteners 971 may be coupledwith the integral mounting structure 914 defined by the manifoldassembly 900. As shown, the integral mounting structure 914 may defineone or more substantially flat surfaces configured to mate with asimilarly flat surface.

FIG. 13 also shows the portions of the integrated manifold assembly 900configured to couple with the eductor 903. As shown, an integrallyformed collar 960 may be defined by the manifold assembly 900. Thecollar 960 may sealingly engage a portion of the eductor 903 via one ormore eductor O-rings 947. In other embodiments, the each manifoldsection 902 may define a nozzle or similar feature, from which motivefluid may be emitted into the eductor. According to suchimplementations, the nozzle may extend into a receiving space defined bythe eductor.

As further shown, the latch member coupling mechanism 926 may includethe latch member 904 and the latch spring 954. In this example, thelatch spring 954 is arranged between an exterior surface of the collar960 and an interior surface of the latch member 904. The latch member904 defines a radial insert 974 configured to circumferentially surroundthe eductor 903. The radial insert 974 may be defined by parallelchamfered surfaces. As shown, the eductor insert 974 may be configuredto insert within a complementary radial receiving slot 976 defined bythe eductor 903. The radial receiving slot 976 may protrude radiallyinward within the eductor 903, forming a groove. To operate the latchmember coupling mechanism 926, a user may apply a perpendicular force tothe exterior surface of the latch member 904. Applying such a force maypush the latch member 904 toward the collar 960, thus compressing thelatch spring 954 therebetween. In this position, the eductor aperture961 may be aligned with the eductor receiving portion 955, enabling theeductor 903 to be receivable by the latch coupling mechanism 926. Whenthe eductor 903 is present in the latch member coupling mechanism,compression of the latch spring 954 may urge the radial insert 974 outof the radial receiving slot 976, and the eductor 903 may be removedfrom the integrated manifold assembly 900. When the compression spring954 is compressed, and once the eductor 903 is inserted into the eductorreceiving portion 955, e.g., due to the alignment of the eductoraperture 961 and the eductor receiving portion 955, the latch member 904is released, and the chamfered surfaces of the radial insert 974 of thelatch member 904 may engage with the chamfered surfaces of the radialreceiving slot 976 of the eductor 903 to reversibly mate, thus securingthe eductor 903 to the manifold section 902 against the force ofgravity, for example. The latch member 904 may be configured to lock inthis position. Unlocking the latch member 904 may be accomplished bymomentarily compressing the latch spring 954, after which the radialinsert 974 may be released from the radial receiving slot 976. Onceunlocked, the eductor 903 may be released. In some examples, the latchmember 904 may be referred to as a “quick-release button.”

The cross section of FIG. 13 also shows the components that may beincluded in the eductor 903. As shown, the eductor 903 may be an eductorassembly in some embodiments. The eductor 903 may include an injectionhousing 927 that defines a chemical inlet 928, a barbed fitting 929, aretention sleeve 978 and an eductor inlet passageway 979. The injectionhousing 927 may further include a check-ball 980 and an eductor spring981. A mixing zone 982 may be positioned adjacent to a Venturi throat983 in the body of the eductor 903.

In operation, motive fluid may exit the integrated manifold 900 andenter the eductor outlet passageway 972 defined by the body of theeductor 903. The motive fluid may then enter a mixing zone 982, where itis mixed with educted chemical received at the injection housing 927 viathe chemical inlet 928. The mixture of motive fluid and chemical is thenconducted out of the eductor 903 through a diverging flow path 984 andthe eductor outlet 930.

Educted chemical may be input to the eductor inlet passageway 979defined by the injection housing. A vacuum created in the Venturi throat983 defined in the eductor body educts chemical, e.g., concentratedchemical, through the eductor inlet passageway 979. Suction from theVenturi throat 983 may overcome a spring force resulting from theeductor spring 981 and allows chemical to flow past the check-ball 980and into the mixing zone 982 where the motive fluid and chemical aremixed.

The injection housing 927 shown in FIG. 13 is connected to the body ofthe eductor 903, but is not integrally formed therein. In some examples,the injection housing 927 may be an integral component of the eductor903, such that the two components may not be separated. Various eductortypes may be used according to the present disclosure.

FIG. 14 shows a front cross-section of the integrated manifold assembly900 of FIG. 9, taken along a plane through the common fluid channel 907defined by the manifold assembly. The manifold sections 902 defined bythe manifold assembly 900 are formed together in a common, integralconstruction. This unitary configuration may decrease the exposure ofthe manifold assembly components to the external environment and reducethe number of individual component parts required for assembly. Theintegrated manifold assembly 900 may also decrease the number of sealsrequired to protect the assembly from the penetration or loss of fluids.

As shown, the common fluid channel 907 may extend laterally across theintegrated manifold assembly 900. The manifold end cap 920 is shown onthe left, capping the common fluid channel 907. One or more manifold capO-rings 950 may be positioned between the manifold assembly 900 andinternal surface of the manifold end cap 920, creating a seal betweenthe two components. At the right end of the manifold assembly 900,opposite the manifold end cap 920, the inlet plug 910 is coupled withthe manifold assembly 900. The inlet plug 910 defines the motive fluidinlet 909, where motive fluid may be received. The inlet plug 910defines an internal plug inlet passageway 986. Once coupled with theintegrated manifold assembly 900, the plug inlet passageway 986 alignswith the common fluid channel 907, such that motive fluid received atthe fluid inlet 909 may flow into the common fluid channel 907, where itis accessible to each manifold section 902 included in the integratedmanifold assembly 900 upon opening of the integrated valves 905. Twoinlet plug O-rings 951 are positioned within radial grooves defined bythe inlet plug 910. The inlet plug O-rings 951 may seal against areceiving surface of the integrated manifold assembly 900, preventingmotive fluid from leaking from the common fluid channel 907.

The mounting structure 914 is integrally formed with the integratedmanifold assembly 900. As shown, the mounting structure 914 may extendbetween each manifold section 902 both below and above the common fluidchannel 907. Accordingly, each plunger housing 934 may be integrallyformed with the adjacent plunger housing 934 through the mountingstructure 914. The integral mounting structure 914 may define numerousapertures that may be variously sized, shaped, and positioned. Forinstance, at least one mounting aperture 987 may be defined by themounting structure 914. As shown, the mounting aperture 987 may beapproximately circular to accommodate a fastener, e.g., a screw or bolt.Additional gaps of irregular shape may also be defined by the mountingstructure 914. For example, mounting gap 988 may be defined by themounting structure 914. The inclusion of one or more gaps within themounting structure 914 may decrease the weight of the integratedmanifold assembly 900. Such gaps may also be used to accommodate variousmounting fasteners and/or external protuberances that may facilitatemounting the integrated manifold assembly 900.

Although certain embodiments of the present disclosure are describedherein with reference to the examples in the accompanying figures, itwould be apparent to those skilled in the art that several modificationsto the described embodiments, as well as other embodiments of thepresent invention are possible without departing from the spirit andscope of the present disclosure.

What is claimed is:
 1. A manifold assembly for use with a fluid deliverysystem, the manifold comprising a single piece of material having afirst end and a second end opposite the first end, the single piece ofmaterial defining: a common fluid channel comprising a common fluidinlet at the first end and a common fluid outlet at the second end; aplurality of individual fluid outlets, each of the individual outletsfluidly coupled to the common fluid channel and arranged between thecommon fluid inlet and the common fluid outlet; a common air channelcomprising an air inlet at the first end and an air outlet at the secondend; a corresponding number of plunger housings to the plurality ofindividual fluid outlets each of the plunger housings having a plungerarm receiving portion with the common air channel formed therethroughand along a direction of the common fluid channel between the first andsecond ends, the plunger arm receiving portion configured to receive anelongated plunger having a plunger head fluidically coupleable with thecommon air channel and an elongated stem extending integrally from theplunger head for arrangement within the common fluid channel; aconnecting segment configured for coupling the manifold assembly to anadjacent manifold assembly; and a mounting structure configured forsecuring the manifold assembly.
 2. The manifold assembly of claim 1,wherein the plunger arm receiving portion is configured to sealinglyengage with the elongated plunger such that air from the common airchannel and fluid from the common fluid channel are separated.
 3. Themanifold assembly of claim 1, wherein the plunger arm receiving portionfurther comprises an end cap receiving portion configured to receive anend cap for enclosing a plunger.
 4. The manifold assembly of claim 1,wherein at least one of the plurality of plunger housings has anexternal face defined by the plunger arm receiving portion that isconfigured to receive a solenoid valve.
 5. The manifold assembly ofclaim 1, further comprising one or more latch member couplingmechanisms, the latch member coupling mechanisms each configured toreversibly couple an eductor to the manifold assembly.
 6. The manifoldassembly of claim 5, wherein the latch member coupling mechanisms eachcomprise a latch member coupled with a spring, the spring compressibleby a user.
 7. The manifold assembly of claim 1, wherein each of theplurality of fluid outlets is reversibly sealed by a plunger, theplunger configured to move bi-directionally in response to changes inair pressure within the plunger housings.
 8. The manifold of claim 1,further comprising the elongated plunger for each of the correspondingnumber of plunger housings.
 9. The manifold of claim 8, wherein eachelongated plunger is surrounded completely by a corresponding one of theplunger housings.
 10. The manifold of claim 8, wherein the elongatedstem of each elongated plunger includes an inwardly curved portionwithin the common fluid channel being configured to permit flow throughthe common fluid channel at any respective actuation position within thecorresponding one of the plunger housings.
 11. The manifold of claim 4,wherein the external face defines: a first duct fluidically coupling thecommon air channel with the solenoid valve; and a second ductfluidically coupling the solenoid valve with the plunger head.
 12. Themanifold of claim 7, wherein the bi-directional movement is along aplunger actuation direction that is substantially transverse to thedirection of the common fluid channel.